Preparation for Flexible Cystoscopy procedure (ED)
What is a flexible cystoscopy?
Flexible cystoscopy is a very common and safe procedure.
A flexible cystoscopy is a procedure which enables the doctor to examine the urethra and bladder using a narrow, flexible fibreoptic tube (cystoscope). The cystoscope lights up the interior surface of the urethra and bladder (and the prostate gland in men). This is performed using local anaesthetic gel which temporarily numbs the lining of the urethra. You will still feel the cystoscope being inserted but it should not be painful.
Why is a flexible cystoscopy necessary?
Your doctor will usually request a flexible cystoscopy if they suspect there may be something wrong with your bladder, prostate, or urethra. The usual reasons to have a cystoscopy are:
- To look for causes of blood in the urine (haematuria)
- To look for bladder stones
- To check for bladder cancer under follow-up
- To look for causes of infection
- To see if any blockages are in the urethra (stricture)
- To assess for prostatic obstruction
- To remove a previously placed ureteric stent
- To place BOTOX into the bladder
Preparation for a flexible cystoscopy
Please arrive 15 minutes before your procedure. Please let us know if you are taking any blood-thinning medication such as warfarin, clopidogrel, dabigatran, rivaroxaban, apixaban, clexane or dipyridamole. Arrangements may have to be made for these to be stopped prior to your procedure.
What happens during the procedure?
A flexible cystoscopy is performed while you are awake. The genital region is washed with chlorhexidine, and a lubricating gel with local anaesthetic is placed in the urethra (the tube you pee through). The scope is placed into the urethra. Despite this, it will be uncomfortable as the scope passes through the prostate. The cystoscope runs fluid slowly into the bladder, to expand the area and make inspection easier. The bladder is then inspected to look for any abnormal areas. You will be able to see what Mr Ali sees on the screen. The inspection takes 3-8 minutes but allow an hour total.
Where will your flexible cystoscopy take place?
Your flexible cystoscopy will be performed in Dr Ali’s procedure room at the Kakariki Hospital.
Do I need to be Nil by Mouth?
No, the procedure is performed with you awake and with local anaesthetic gel in the urethra. You can therefore eat and drink before the procedure and drive to and from the procedure.
Can I go back to work afterwards?
Yes, you can go back to work straight away and live your day normally but remember that it may sting a little when you pass urine for the next day or two.
What problems can occur?
The most common side effect is a burning feeling in the tube you pass urine through. This may be relieved by Ural sachets (one sachet to one glass of water up to four times a day). You can have paracetamol as directed to reduce your discomfort. Sometimes a tiny bit of blood can be seen in the first pee after the scope. Drink extra fluid until it clears. You may pass urine frequently for a day or two.
Please call our rooms or see your GP/medical centre straight away if you experience any of the following:
- Heavy bleeding or clots
- Cloudy appearance of urine
- Offensive smelling urine
- Tenderness over the bladder region or back
- Feeling unwell
- Fever or chills